CNN I Central News and Network India/ITDC India ePress Delhi/Hyderabad/Mumbai/Bhopal: The Lok Sabha elections of 2024 have reached their final stages with the conclusion of the seventh phase of voting on June 1. Nearly a billion people participated across 1.05 million polling booths, reflecting the world’s largest democratic exercise. The results, set to be announced on June 4, are eagerly awaited by the nation.

Key Developments:

BJP’s Confidence:

    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP have been actively campaigning across various states. PM Modi highlighted significant promises, including housing for the poor, free medical treatment for the elderly, and financial assistance through various schemes. These initiatives are poised to benefit millions if the BJP retains power.
    • Home Minister Amit Shah expressed confidence in securing a majority, claiming that the BJP has already won 310 seats and is aiming to surpass 400 seats with the final rounds of counting.Opposition’s Stance:
      • The opposition, led by the Congress and the INDIA bloc, remains optimistic. Leaders like Tejashwi Yadav of the RJD have asserted that the INDIA alliance is poised to take power once the results are declared, challenging the BJP’s dominance.
      • Voter Demographics:
        • This election has seen a notable increase in young and third-gender voters. Over 20 million young electors and more than 48,000 third-gender voters participated, showcasing a more inclusive democratic process. The electoral rolls also included 18.5 million voters above 80 years of age and 238,000 centenarians.

Controversies and Highlights:

  • The election season was marked by heated rhetoric and controversies, with leaders from both the BJP and the Congress making strong statements. Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, comparing his actions to PM Modi’s, and dubbing the opposition bloc as “scamsters”.
  • BJP President JP Nadda and other leaders emphasized the contrast between their vision and that of the opposition, framing the election as a choice between progress and regression.

What to Expect:

  • The final results will be announced on June 4, with live coverage available on various news platforms such as Hindustan Times and Times of India. The nation is on edge, awaiting the outcome that will determine its political direction for the next five years.

Stay tuned for live updates and detailed analysis as the counting progresses and the final results are declared.